Together for HIV and AIDS prevention

4.4. HIV Testing
Section4
“You cannot tell just by looking at
someone that they are infected with
HIV. Be safe – wear a condom.”
Ronaldo, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Special
Representative for the World AIDS Campaign.
4.4.1 What is an HIV test?
An HIV test is a test that reveals whether HIV is
present in the body. Commonly used HIV tests detect
the antibodies produced by the immune system in
response to HIV, as they are much easier (and
cheaper) to detect than the virus itself. Antibodies are
produced by the immune system in response to an
infection.
For most people, it takes three months for these
antibodies to develop. In rare cases, it can take up to
six months.
4.4.2 How long after possible exposure
should I wait to be tested for HIV?
It is recommended that you wait three months after
possible exposure before being tested for HIV.
Although HIV antibody tests are very sensitive, there is
a period of three to twelve weeks between a sexual encounter or possible infection and the
appearance of detectable antibodies to the virus. Thus, if you think you might have been at risk for HIV
transmission during a sexual encounter you need to wait for twelve weeks to take the test, and during
that time either abstain from sexual intercourse, or always and correctly use condoms (see Annex 4).
4.4.3 What should you do if you think you have exposed yourself to HIV?
If you think you may have been infected with HIV, you should get counselling and testing for
HIV. Precautions should be taken to prevent spreading HIV to others. In the meantime, either
abstain from sexual intercourse, or always and correctly use condoms (see Annex 4). If you inject
drugs, do not share needles.
4.4.4 Why should I get an HIV test?
Knowing your HIV status has two vital benefits. Firstly, if you are HIV-infected, you can take
necessary steps such as eating well, taking enough rest and, if available, appropriate drugs which
slow down the progression of HIV, thereby potentially prolonging your life for many years. Secondly,
if you know you are infected, you can take all the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of
HIV to others.
Together for HIV and AIDS prevention 41